Northampton charity shares signs of an inclusive Christmas

The video features people using Makaton, British Sign Language and other forms of communication

A mental health charity has released a video to remind people of the importance of communication at this time of year.

Participants used techniques including Makaton and British Sign Language (BSL) for the video by St Andrew's Healthcare in Northampton.

A total of 273 people came together to record the festive song.

The charity's chief executive said it "highlights the importance of ensuring everyone feels valued and heard".

More than 50 different teams from across the charity's work agreed to take part in the YouTube video, signing We Wish You a Merry Christmas in Makaton and BSL.

Makaton uses signs alongside speech, in spoken word order, to support understanding and expression, and is largely used with individuals who have learning difficulties.

BSL is the language of the deaf community in the UK, which uses hand shapes, facial expressions, gestures and body language to communicate.

The chief executive of St Andrew's Healthcare, Dr Vivienne McVey, said the video helps ensure everyone feels valued and heard.

Kimberlee Ferrari, the lead speech and language therapist at St Andrew's, said: "We decided to make this video, to show that all forms of communication - whether it be verbal, non-verbal, sign, written, and technological forms - all convey unique nuances and perspectives.

"By acknowledging the richness of diverse communication methods and styles, we not only enhance interpersonal connections but also create a more inclusive and accessible society where everyone's voice is valued."

St Andrew's Healthcare's chief executive Dr Vivienne McVey said: "We're very proud of our Christmas communication video, which we feel highlights the importance of ensuring everyone feels valued and heard.

"You do not have to be an expert in Makaton or BSL to communicate with someone who may find mainstream ways of communicating challenging."

She added: "There are lots of universal hand gestures or even facial expressions that can be used to have a conversation, just think about how you may have managed to communicate with you who doesn't speak the same language."